16-year-old remembers mother killed in San Bernardino terror attack

Friday, December 2, 2016
SAN BERNARDINO, Calf. (KABC) -- A 16-year-old girl was grieving the death of her mother, Bennetta Betbadal, who was killed in the San Bernardino terror attack one year ago Friday.

Community members gathered in San Bernardino Thursday night for a memorial service on the eve of the first anniversary of the terror attack.

The 14 people killed in a horrific mass shooting were remembered by loved ones, San Bernardino residents and the religious community during a service at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral.
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"She was my strength and my support. She was always there for me," said an emotional Jolene Verdehy, Betbadal's daughter. "I take every day a step at a time. Even though I do have difficulties, I still have a positive outlook on life."

The names of each victim were read as family members placed roses next to their photos.

MORE: Survivors of San Bernardino recall attack
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The congregation heard messages from leaders representing several different faiths, offering messages of hope, including an imam from the Islamic Center of Riverside.

"We have to come together -- Jews, Christians, Muslims and others," he said.

MORE: San Bernardino attack recalled by reporters who were there that day

The pain of the injuries and loss of life during the attack was still taking a toll on many in the community.



"Where I work is about a half mile away from where the tragedy happened, so I felt that it was our duty to come and be with the families and just pray together," said San Bernardino resident Gabby Moreno.
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